Maturity is a must

“There is an evil I have seen under the sun, as an error proceeding from the ruler: folly is set in great dignity, while the rich sit in a lowly place. I have seen servants on horses, while princes walk on the ground like servants.” Ecclesiastes 10:5–7

Oh, what an observation! This is a tragic misalignment of divine order. We were created to reign, yet many of us are ruled over and oppressed by life’s circumstances. We are not taking our rightful place, and this, the Bible calls an error. So we ask, why? And what? Why are those destined to be above, found beneath? What causes servants to ride on horses while princes walk barefoot? Why do those entitled to great wealth live in lack, beneath the standards God has set?

Galatians 4:1–2 provides some insight: “Now I say that the heir, as long as he is a child, does not differ at all from a slave, though he is master of all, but is under guardians and stewards until the time appointed by the father.” An heir can forfeit his inheritance through immaturity. Though lord of all, he remains no different from a servant until he matures. This is saying factually that your maturity will determine the kind of opportunities God entrusts to you and the level of platforms you can access. This is not about age, size, or intelligence. It is about spiritual growth, character development, and the readiness to handle responsibility.

We must never confuse maturity with mere physical development. Size is not the same as substance. Likewise, brilliance or intelligence should not be mistaken for wisdom—they are not the same thing. One can be sharp-minded yet lack sound judgement.

Age and maturity are not synonymous. Just because someone is old does not automatically mean they are wise. Being as old as Methuselah does not bestow upon you the wisdom of Solomon or the discernment of Joseph.

As Job 32:7–9 says:

“I said, ‘Age should speak,
And multitude of years should teach wisdom.’
But there is a spirit in man,
And the breath of the Almighty gives him understanding.
Great men are not always wise,
Nor do the aged always understand justice.’”

There’s a striking truth here: growing old is not the same as growing up. An increase in age does not guarantee an increase in wisdom. The passage of time does not automatically bring maturity.

Maturity is a must. It is a conscious pursuit, a product of discipline, humility, and the fear of the Lord. Without it, we remain unequipped for the responsibilities and blessings God desires to entrust to us.

Kay Alli